SYNOPSIS Is there such a thing as a perfect murder? In this riveting play, set in New York in the early fifties, two young men who have everything – wealth, looks, talent and good breeding – commit a dreadful crime: just because they can. But someone from their past proves to be a greater adversary and nemesis than they ever could have imagined.

THE CAST There are no bit parts – every part is substantial, but Rupert, Brandon and Phillip are very large and demanding roles. American accents are necessary, even if it is just a suggestion. All ages are very approximate.MR KENTLEY (50-60David Kentley’s father, a polished gentleman of courtly manners and an urbane, sympathetic character. Speaks with a quiet dignity. British accent would be suitable too.BRANDON(20-30) Good-looking, talented, clever but quite insane. He is stronger than Phillip and dominates him. Witty, sophisticated and malicious, Brandon is a gem of a part.PHILLIP (20-30)Brandon’s partner, a concert pianist. Sensitive and passive, he does however stand up to Brandon’s domineering ways. Throughout the play he is tortured by what he and Brandon have done. Also a gem of a part.RUPERT (30-45)Phillip, Brandon and Kenneth’s former school teacher. A clever man with an analytical mind, it is Rupert who solves the mystery. He is Brandon’s adversary, yet Brandon admires him above all. A challenging part.KENNETH (20-30)Phillip and Brandon’s former school mate and Janet’s former boyfriend. Although somewhat less intelligent than his classmates, Kenneth is no fool. A smaller but challenging role.JANET (20-30)David Kentley’s fiancée. A pretty, intelligent, stylish girl who tries to compensate for a lack of confidence by being witty and sophisticated. A part that offers an opportunity for strong acting.MRS ATTWATER (40-60)David Kentley’s aunt and the sister of Mr Kentley. A comic part, but the comedy is largely unintentional on her part. Vague and very “dear”, she could be played with a British accent. A challenging role.MRS WILSON (40-65)Brandon and Phillip’s housekeeper. Also comic, the part would be best suited to a thin to the point of skinny woman well past her prime who is still rather vain. Very involved in her employers’ lives, she is both motherly and interfering. A lovely part.

ALSO NEEDED are a production secretary, stage manager, prompt, props master, costume and set builders.